EP3466747A1 - Charging station for electric vehicles having a height-adjustable held charging cable connector - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a charging station for providing electrical energy for an electrically operable vehicle comprising a charging cable device (2) with a charging cable plug (26) for connection to the vehicle, wherein the charging cable plug (26) is suspended in height adjustable by means of a suspension device (15) a traction means (16) has at least indirectly holding the charging cable plug (26), wherein the charging cable plug (26) is positioned in a basic position against a first stop and can be moved from the basic position to a stowing position in which the charging cable plug (26) below the Basic position is provided, for the purpose of bringing the charging cable connector (26) from the basic position to the ready position a slidably trained and / or pivotally mounted actuator (14) is provided which is connected to the charging cable connector (26) in any case indirectly.

Description

The invention relates to a charging station for providing electrical energy for electrically operable vehicles. Vehicles within the meaning of the invention are in particular all automobiles (cars, trucks, motorhomes, two-wheelers, buses, vans and others), rail vehicles (especially locomotives), watercraft (boats and ships), aircraft and trailers (mobile homes), mobile stalls and others , The charging station can be used to provide electrical energy for vehicles with and without their own energy storage.

Charging stations for providing electrical energy for electrically operable vehicles are becoming increasingly widespread in the public sector, for example in parking lots, and in private environments. Today, the charging infrastructure is predominantly tailored to the needs and habits of the private user who travels with an electrically operated car or two-wheeler, or to commercially used cars. By contrast, special solutions for commercial supply and distribution traffic are only beginning to emerge developed. For example, describes the EP 3 035 478 A1 a concept for the modular electrical wiring of a charging station with distributed charging points, which may preferably be used in a commercial environment. Concepts for the constructive realization of a tailored to the needs of the commercial sector, in particular modular charging station are not known to date, however.

Object of the present invention is to provide a charging station, which is adapted to the harsh conditions of use in the commercial sector and in particular is secured against damage during startup and departure of commercial vehicles.

To achieve the object, the invention has the features of claim 1.

Accordingly, the charging station according to the invention comprises a charging cable device with a charging cable connector for connection to the vehicle, wherein the charging cable device is suspended with the charging cable plug height adjustable by means of a suspension device which has a traction means for at least indirectly holding the charging cable, the charging cable in a basic position against a first Stop is positioned and can be moved from the basic position to a provisioning position in which the charging cable connector is provided at a lower level than in the basic position, and wherein for manually moving the charging cable connector from the basic position to the ready position an elastic and / or limp formed and / or or pivotally mounted, manually operable actuator is provided, which is in any case indirectly connected to the charging cable connector.

The particular advantage of the invention is that can be ranked by the height-adjustable suspension of the charging cable, the electrically powered vehicle in a simple manner, as long as the charging cable device is provided with the charging cable connector in the basic position. This can namely be chosen so high that the charging cable plug does not collide with the vehicle itself or a body of the vehicle. The vehicle can thus drive under the charging cable plug or the charging cable device. Nevertheless, to ensure the accessibility of the charging cable connector, which is flexible or pivotally mounted actuator provided which is led down so far that a user can grip the actuator in a simple manner and spend using the actuator charging the device with the charging cable connector from the basic position in the ready position. Due to its pliable / elastic training or pivotal mounting the actuator is an obstacle for the vehicle when maneuvering of minor importance. For example, the actuator may be made of a textile, immanently elastic or resilient material and / or form a handle loop, which favors a simple height adjustment of the charging cable connector.

According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the basic position of the charging cable device is formed with the charging cable connector as a preferred position. For this purpose, the traction means of the suspension is acted upon by a restoring force which pulls the charging cable in the absence of a corresponding counterforce in the basic position. Advantageously, it is ensured that the charging cable plug enters the basic position without any active intervention. He is thus secured in a particularly effective manner against damage. Furthermore, it is avoided that the charging cable plug is provided in an undefined intermediate position between the basic position on the one hand and the provision position on the other hand, in which the user can bump his head, for example on the charging cable plug or the charging cable plug strikes against the vehicle and this damages.

According to a development of the invention, the provisioning position is formed as a detent position such that the charging cable connector is moved to spend it in the ready position initially beyond the staging position and then retracted to the stowed position, or the charging cable plug for spilling it from the stowed position to the home position is first moved against the restoring force of the traction device and then retracted to the basic position. Advantageously, the provision of the detent in the ready position a significant simplification of the handling of the charging station. Manual setting is not required. In addition, by providing the detent position an always defined position specified for the charging cable connector. As a result, the user is further relieved when using the charging station and effectively prevented a faulty operation.

It is according to the invention, the provisioning position is not necessarily designed as a detent position. In this respect, it can be provided according to an alternative embodiment of the invention that the charging cable connector is manually held in the ready position or other fastening means are provided to fix the charging cable in the ready position.

According to a development of the invention, the traction means is acted upon by a spring force for impressing the restoring force. Advantageously, the application of force by the provision of the spring can be done in a very simple manner. Depending on the specific construction of the suspension device, for example, a torsion spring, a coil spring, a gas spring or a conventional tension spring can be provided. Optionally and alternatively, the traction means can be loaded with a weight force.

According to a development of the invention, an adjustment path for the charging cable device is limited to the charging cable connector via a second stop. This advantageously ensures that the charging cable plug can not be pulled down beyond the provisioning position. This results in a defined adjustment path for the charging cable plug, so that ultimately the charging station in general and the charging cable device and the suspension device in particular are protected against damage caused by improper use.

According to a development of the invention, a vertical distance between the basic position and the provisioning position is smaller than the adjustment of the charging cable device with the charging cable connector. A ratio between the vertically determined distance of the basic position and the provision position on the one hand and the displacement on the other hand is preferably in the range of more than 0.9 and particularly preferably in the range of more than 0.95. Advantageously, this results in a comparatively small overstroke for the charging cable plug beyond the provisioning position, with the result that the provisioning position can be selected comparatively close to the ground and easy operation of the charging station is favored.

According to a development of the invention, the traction means is elastic or limp formed. Advantageously, the traction means is thereby secured against damage even when the vehicle collides with the maneuvering means when maneuvering, for example, or when the vehicle is loaded with goods, the traction means is approached by a forklift.

According to a development of the invention, the traction means in any case in sections in the basic position or in the provision position on a drum of the suspension stored. Advantageously, the provision of the drum results in a compact construction for the suspension device and the traction means is protected against damage, especially in the basic position.

According to a development of the invention, a locking body is provided for the realization of the locking position on the traction means, which is rigidly connected to the traction means and is provided for holding the charging cable device with the charging cable connector in the ready position and / or in the basic position. For example, the locking body may be applied in the ready position against the second stop.

According to a development of the invention, the detent body serves to limit the movement of the traction means to the effect that the detent body is positioned in the home position against the first stop.

According to a development of the invention, the latching body is guided during the removal of the charging cable plug from the basic position to the ready position and / or back along a control link of the suspension device. For example, the second stop for the adjustment path of the charging cable plug can be realized by a block formed on the control link, against which the locking body is positioned and which counteracts a further adjustment of the locking body. In addition, it can be provided that the locking body is held in the supply position in a depression of the control link that the Detent body is performed when moving the charging cable connector from the basic position to the provision position along a first control edge of the control link or that the locking body is guided during the movement of the charging cable from the provision position to the basic position along the second control edge of the control link. Advantageously, the provision of the control link with the blocks, the sink or the control edges a very compact construction of the suspension in the realization of the staging position as a detent position and a mechanically robust design, which favors a long life even under the harsh conditions of use, for example, the logistics industry ,

According to a development of the invention, the charging station is modular. It comprises the charging cable device with a first charging cable segment, which is connected via an electrical switching module to a supply network, with a second charging cable segment, at the end a charging cable connector set for connection of the charging station to the vehicle, and with an adapter module for electrically and mechanically connecting the charging cable segments , Furthermore, the modular charging station comprises a control module exhibiting the switching module and a suspension device with a traction means, wherein the suspension device is designed for an overhead mounting of the charging cable device and wherein the traction means is fixed to the first charging cable segment and / or to the adapter module. Advantageously, a flexible adaptation to the very diverse spatial conditions in the commercial sector is possible in a simple manner by the modular design of the charging station. For example, if the building itself, the geometry of a provided on the buildings loading ramp, the size and height of a canopy or a ceiling height differ, a variety of the same functional components (control unit, charging cable device or individual charging cable segments and adapter module, suspension device, charging cable) reused and be assembled according to local conditions. Only individual functional components to be modified for the specific case are adapted according to the local conditions. It is insofar possible to reuse different functional components identically, with the result that the development costs, the manufacturing costs and the assembly costs can be kept low and ultimately the charging station can be provided particularly economically. In addition, the effort is reduced for functional testing and quality control through the use of identical parts. Furthermore, it is possible to subsequently modify the installation and, for example, make an adaptation to another vehicle type or structural changes or to make the same by exchanging or modifying only individual functional components.

According to a development of the invention, the control unit with the switching module or the adapter module with the second charging cable segment fixed thereto factory prefabricated and always used identically. It is thereby possible to manufacture the control unit and the adapter module with the second charging cable segment industrially in large numbers and to further reduce costs.

According to a development of the invention, the suspension device with the traction means factory prefabricated, the traction means factory has a predetermined maximum length and installation of the charging station on site according to the local conditions an installation length for the traction means is adjusted as needed and in particular the traction means shortened as needed becomes. Advantageously, the suspension can be prefabricated inexpensively in this way. An adaptation is to be provided solely in relation to the length of the traction device. The cost of the suspension can also be kept low.

Basically, it allows factory-prefabrication of the controller, the adapter module with the second charging cable segment and the suspension, to minimize the installation or installation effort on site. The time for the installation of the charging station and thus the impairment of the operational processes is reduced. In addition, there is a quality improvement, since the possibilities for assembly and testing of the components in the factory production are usually better than a (partial) installation at the installation site of the charging station. Here, for example, the weather and the more manual than industrial work may influence the quality.

According to a development of the invention, the control device is designed wall-mounted in the manner of a wallbox. Advantageously arise in the wall mounting of Control unit only minor structural changes and preliminary work on the building and it can be dispensed with the provision of a foundation for the control unit. In addition, can be dispensed with the provision of a wallbox on the ground-side supply of a connecting line for the supply network. It is insofar the module idea following the realization of the control unit as a wallbox suitable to reduce installation costs and thus the cost on.

According to a development of the invention, a cover or roof-mounted mounting rail is provided for the suspension device and there are formed on the suspension fastening means for fixing the same on the mounting rail. Advantageously, the use of a preferably always the same mounting rail for the suspension allows a further simplification of the installation or assembly of the suspension on site. In the context of over-head mounting of the charging cable device so far the mounting rail is installed taking into account the structural conditions on site and then set the suspension on always the same trained fasteners on the mounting rail. An orientation of the suspension can be done so far on the mounting rail. It may be waived, the suspension directly to the building or a ceiling or a canopy set the same.

According to a development of the invention, rollers are provided as fastening means to the suspension and the mounting rail is formed in the manner of a longitudinally slotted square tube profile. Advantageously, by providing the rollers and the realization of the mounting rail as a longitudinally slotted square tube profile results in a simple way for exact positioning of the suspension device on the mounting rail. The rollers are used for this purpose in the region of the longitudinal slot of the mounting rail in ebendiese and it can be the suspension by means of the rollers on the mounting rail to be moved longitudinally. Once the correct position for the suspension is found depending on the structural conditions on site, the suspension can be permanently fixed to the mounting rail.

According to a development of the invention, the charging station comprises a safety charging cable device with a first charging cable segment, which via a electrical switching module is connected to a supply network, with a second charging cable segment, at the end a charging cable connector is set for connection of the charging station to the vehicle, and with a multi-part safety coupling as an adapter module for electrically and mechanically connecting the first charging cable segment to the second charging cable segment. For this purpose, the safety clutch provides a first coupling unit, a second coupling unit and a connecting module designed for non-destructively releasable mechanical connection of the first coupling unit to the second coupling unit. In addition, the first coupling unit has a plug-in element which is connected in an electrically conductive manner to the first charging cable segment and the second coupling unit has a mating plug element, which is connected in an electrically conductive manner to the plug-in element of the first coupling unit and which is electrically conductively connected to the second charging cable segment. Advantageously, by providing the safety charging cable device with the safety coupling damage to the charging station when approaching a parking position assigned to the charging station in which the vehicle is also electrically charged and loaded with goods, and particularly effectively prevented when leaving the parking position. It is the case that via the safety coupling of the safety charging cable device, the first charging cable segment is separated from the second charging cable segment when an inadmissibly high mechanical load acts on the safety coupling. This may be the case, for example, if the vehicle is not disconnected from the charging station before leaving the parking position, and insofar the charging cable plug, which is provided at the end on the second charging cable segment, is still inserted in the vehicle. Likewise, the mechanical load may be unacceptably large when approached the charging station, for example, hanging overhead mounted safety charging cable device is approached unnoticed with a body of the vehicle and hooked to the vehicle. Likewise, there is protection against vandalism or abuse. In each case, it is ensured by the construction according to the invention that in any case the expensive electromechanical functional components of the charging station, in particular the control unit with the electrical switching module, as well as the building infrastructure and in particular the vehicle itself are protected against damage. In addition, the safety clutch is defined in the area between the first coupling unit and the second coupling unit separately, with the result that the components of the safety coupling are usually not damaged. Should However, in some cases, a component of the safety clutch are damaged because, for example, the vehicle rolls over the second coupling unit with its tires, this component of the otherwise modular charging station alone has to be replaced. The time required and the associated costs are so far low.

According to a development of the invention, the first coupling unit and the second coupling unit are positively connected by the connection module and not positively connected. Advantageously, the frictional connection of the coupling units can be solved in a simple manner non-destructive. For example, the connection module may be designed for clamping the first coupling unit to the second coupling unit.

According to a development of the invention, the connection module of the safety charging cable device is designed for the magnetic connection of the coupling units. In this respect, a coupling unit comprises a magnet, preferably a permanent magnet and on the other coupling unit is provided a correspondingly shaped, cooperating with the magnet opposite magnet body. Advantageously, a structurally simple and permanently secure connection between the coupling units can be produced by providing the magnet. In addition, a force for mechanical separation of the magnetic connection friction-independent and preset with sufficient accuracy. In addition, the magnetic connection of the coupling units can be realized structurally simple and thus designed cost.

According to a development of the invention, the coupling units are mechanically fixed to one another in a first operating arrangement of the safety charging cable device. In addition, the plug-in element for forming a plug connection with the mating plug element is electrically contacted. In a safety separation arrangement of the safety charging cable device, by contrast, the coupling units are mechanically separated and the electrical connection between the charging cable segments is interrupted, wherein the plug-in element is not attached to the mating plug element. Advantageously, this results in the operating arrangement of the safety charging cable device, the unrestricted possibility for electrical charging of the vehicle. In addition, a mechanical and electrical coupling in the Safety separation arrangement provided with the result that, despite damage or an unforeseen operating condition, the safety requirements are met and a damage to the infrastructure and a threat to the people involved is effectively prevented.

According to a development of the invention, the mechanical connection between the coupling units is dissolved in a transitional arrangement of the safety charging cable device, while the mating plug is still electrically connected to the plug element. It is insofar provided that upon actuation of the safety clutch first the mechanical connection is canceled and then the electrical coupling is subsequently separated.

According to a development of the invention, a releasing force for the mechanical connection between the coupling units separating force is greater than a holding force which is applied for releasing the plug element of the mating plug. For example, the holding force is in the range of 30 kg. Advantageously, this ensures that after the release of the safety clutch and the separation of the mechanical connection, the present (interference) force is sufficiently large to disconnect the connector. Structurally, the separation force can be adjusted for example by a suitable choice of the permanent magnet, whereas the holding force is defined by the choice or geometric design of the male element and the mating connector.

According to a development of the invention, a strain relief is provided for the second charging cable segment on the second coupling unit. Advantageously, this ensures that damage to the charging cable segment is effectively prevented even with large (interference) forces and transmission of impermissibly high mechanical forces on the charging cable is avoided. The connector is so far mechanically not burdened. Optionally, a strain relief can of course also be provided as part of the first coupling unit for strain relief of the first charging cable segment.

According to a development of the invention, the safety charging cable device is provided for an overhead mounting, wherein the first coupling unit is held vertically adjustable via a suspension device and on the second coupling unit or the second charging cable segment an actuating element for height adjustment of the safety clutch is provided. Advantageously, this can be achieved on the one hand, that the charging station can be approached by the vehicle flexible. This results in a high degree of flexibility in terms of maneuverability and parking position. At the same time results from the overhead mounting of the safety charging cable device high flexibility and freedom when loading the vehicle. In particular, it can be ensured that a commercial vehicle is freely accessible laterally or from behind and can be loaded while it is being charged electrically. The vehicle can, for example, be moved backwards to a loading ramp and the safety charging cable device with the safety coupling can be mounted suspended on a canopy. The safety charging cable device is nevertheless easy to operate because, in cooperation with the second coupling unit or the second charging cable segment, the actuating element, in particular a textile handle or a handle loop is provided. About the preferred limp or compliant trained or pivotally suspended actuator can be realized so far the height adjustment.

According to a development of the invention, the suspension device on a slippery or elastic traction means, wherein the traction means is fixed to the first charging cable segment or to the first coupling unit of the safety clutch. By means of the traction means in this case the over-head mounting is realized. The pliable or elastic training of the same ensures that an immanent compliance can be realized, which counteracts damage to the safety charging cable device even if, for example, the safety coupling or the second charging cable segment is touched with the charging cable connector when approaching the parking position.

According to a development of the invention, the charging cable device is held variable in height via the suspension device, wherein the adapter module or the safety clutch is positioned in an upper basic position against the first stop and can be moved from the basic position to a deployment position in which the charging cable below the Basic position is provided and then can be attached to the vehicle to carry out the charging process. Advantageously damage to the charging cable device, which is provided at a free end of the second charging cable segment, effectively prevented in the basic position due to the height. For example, the basic position can be chosen so that the vehicles can not get in contact with the usual height when parking with the charging cable connector, the safety coupling or the safety charging cable device. In the ready position, the charging cable plug is then provided so that it is accessible and can be gripped for connecting the charging station to the vehicle.

From the other dependent claims and the following description further advantages, features and details of the invention can be found. There mentioned features may be essential to the invention individually or in any combination. The drawings are merely illustrative of the clarification of the invention and are not of a restrictive nature.

Fig. 1

eine Prinzipdarstellung einer an einer Betriebsimmobilie (Lagerhalle) installierten, erfindungsgemäßen Ladestation,

Fig. 2

eine Detailvergrößerung der Installationsanordnung nach Fig. 1,

Fig. 3

einen Teil einer Sicherheitsladekabeleinrichtung der erfindungsgemäßen Ladestation nach Fig. 1,

Fig. 4

eine erste perspektivische Ansicht einer Sicherheitskupplung der Sicherheitsladekabeleinrichtung nach Fig. 3 in einer Betriebsanordnung,

Fig. 5

eine zweite perspektivische Ansicht der Sicherheitskupplung nach Fig. 4 in der Betriebsanordnung,

Fig. 6

eine erste perspektivische Ansicht der Sicherheitskupplung nach Fig. 4 in einer Sicherheitstrennanordnung,

Fig. 7

eine zweite perspektivische Ansicht der Sicherheitskupplung nach Fig. 4 in der Sicherheitstrennanordnung,

Fig. 8

eine Detaildarstellung einer Montageanordnung für die Über-Kopf-Montage der Sicherheitsladekabeleinrichtung,

Fig. 9

eine perspektivische Ansicht einer für die Über-Kopf-Montage vorgesehenen Aufhängevorrichtung,

Fig. 10

eine Prinzipdarstellung der Aufhängevorrichtung nach Fig. 9 in der Grundposition,

Fig. 11

die Prinzipdarstellung der Aufhängevorrichtung nach Fig. 9 in einer ersten Zwischenposition,

Fig. 12

die Prinzipdarstellung der Aufhängevorrichtung nach Fig. 9 in einer zweiten Zwischenposition,

Fig. 13

die Prinzipdarstellung der Aufhängevorrichtung nach Fig. 9 in der Bereitstellungsposition,

Fig. 14

die Prinzipdarstellung der Aufhängevorrichtung nach Fig. 9 in einer dritten Zwischenposition,

Fig. 15

die Prinzipdarstellung der Aufhängevorrichtung nach Fig. 9 in einer vierten Zwischenposition,

Fig. 16

eine Prinzipdarstellung einer ersten alternativen Ausführungsform der Aufhängevorrichtung in einer Grundposition,

Fig. 17

eine Aufsicht auf die Aufhängevorrichtung nach Fig. 16,

Fig. 18

die Prinzipdarstellung der Aufhängevorrichtung nach Fig. 16 in einer ersten Zwischenposition,

Fig. 19

die Prinzipdarstellung der Aufhängevorrichtung nach Fig. 16 in einer zweiten Zwischenposition,

Fig. 20

die Prinzipdarstellung der Aufhängevorrichtung nach Fig. 16 in der Bereitstellungsposition,

Fig. 21

die Prinzipdarstellung der Aufhängevorrichtung nach Fig. 16 in einer dritten Zwischenposition,

Fig. 22

die Prinzipdarstellung der Aufhängevorrichtung nach Fig. 16 in einer vierten Zwischenposition und

Fig. 23

eine Prinzipdarstellung einer zweiten alternativen Ausführungsform der Aufhängevorrichtung in der Grundposition.

Show it:

Fig. 1

a schematic diagram of an installed on an operating property (warehouse), charging station according to the invention,

Fig. 2

an enlarged detail of the installation arrangement according to Fig. 1 .

Fig. 3

a part of a safety charging cable device of the charging station according to the invention Fig. 1 .

Fig. 4

a first perspective view of a safety coupling of the Sicherheitsladekabeleinrichtung after Fig. 3 in an operating arrangement,

Fig. 5

a second perspective view of the safety coupling after Fig. 4 in the operating arrangement,

Fig. 6

a first perspective view of the safety coupling after Fig. 4 in a safety separator,

Fig. 7

a second perspective view of the safety coupling after Fig. 4 in the safety separator,

Fig. 8

a detailed view of a mounting arrangement for the overhead mounting of the Sicherheitsladekabeleinrichtung,

Fig. 9

a perspective view of a provided for over-head mounting suspension,

Fig. 10

a schematic diagram of the suspension after Fig. 9 in the basic position,

Fig. 11

the schematic diagram of the suspension after Fig. 9 in a first intermediate position,

Fig. 12

the schematic diagram of the suspension after Fig. 9 in a second intermediate position,

Fig. 13

the schematic diagram of the suspension after Fig. 9 in the staging position,

Fig. 14

the schematic diagram of the suspension after Fig. 9 in a third intermediate position,

Fig. 15

the schematic diagram of the suspension after Fig. 9 in a fourth intermediate position,

Fig. 16

a schematic representation of a first alternative embodiment of the suspension in a basic position,

Fig. 17

a view of the suspension after Fig. 16 .

Fig. 18

the schematic diagram of the suspension after Fig. 16 in a first intermediate position,

Fig. 19

the schematic diagram of the suspension after Fig. 16 in a second intermediate position,

Fig. 20

the schematic diagram of the suspension after Fig. 16 in the staging position,

Fig. 21

the schematic diagram of the suspension after Fig. 16 in a third intermediate position,

Fig. 22

the schematic diagram of the suspension after Fig. 16 in a fourth intermediate position and

Fig. 23

a schematic diagram of a second alternative embodiment of the suspension in the basic position.

A modular charging station according to the invention for providing electrical energy for an electrically operable vehicle according to the Fig. 1 and 2 comprises as essential functional components a control device 1 and a charging cable device 2, which is realized as a safety charging cable device 2. The control unit 1 is wall-mounted in the manner of a wallbox and attached to a side wall of a building 34, such as a warehouse and logistics hall. The control unit 1 comprises a switching module which serves to start or end the charging process and to establish the connection to the supply network as needed. For this purpose, the switching module provides, for example, at least one contactor or at least one other power switch. The safety charging cable device 2 provides a first charging cable segment 3 and a second charging cable segment 4 and an adapter module 5 designed in the manner of a safety clutch for connecting the first charging cable segment 3 to the second charging cable segment 4. The safety coupling 5 comprises a first coupling unit 6 assigned to the first charging cable segment 3 and a second coupling unit 7 assigned to the second charging cable segment 4 and a connection module 8 for the non-destructive detachable, mechanical connection of the first coupling unit 6 to the second coupling unit 7.

The charging station according to the invention is in particular designed to provide electrical energy for commercial vehicles, which are electrically charged during a rest phase or when loading the vehicle with goods. For this reason, the safety charging cable device 2 is held in an over-head mounting on a canopy 29 of the building 34 adjustable in height. For the height-adjustable mounting a suspension device 15 is provided, which is connected via a traction means 16 with the safety coupling 5. The suspension device 15 in turn is fixed to the canopy 29 via a mounting rail 27.

The safety charging cable device 2 provides as the first essential component, the first charging cable segment 3, which is guided by the control unit 2 vertically upwards under the canopy 29 and further into the region of a front edge portion of the canopy 29 below ebendiesem is provided. The first charging cable segment 3 is then guided adjacent to the suspension device 15 as a loop 36 to a plug-in element 11 of the first coupling unit 6, with which it is electrically connected.

The second charging cable segment 4 of the safety charging cable device 2 is guided by the second coupling unit 7 to a charging cable connector 26, which is designed for connection of the charging station to the vehicle. It is insofar a standardized charging cable connector 26th

For connecting the second coupling unit 7 to the second charging cable segment 4, a counterpart element 12 corresponding to the plug element 11 is provided on the second coupling unit 7, which can be applied to the plug element 11 of the first coupling unit 6 in an electrically conductive manner, forms a plug connection with the latter and electrically is conductively connected to the second charging cable segment 4. Furthermore, a receptacle 33 for the charging cable plug 26 is provided on the second charging cable segment 4. The receptacle 33 is not electrically contacted. It serves to hold the charging cable plug 26 in a defined position while the charging station is not being used. Furthermore, the second charging cable segment 4 provides a spiral cable section 35. The spiral cable section 35 of the second charging cable segment 4 serves as a cable supply. It ensures that the charging cable plug 26 can be attached to the electrically operated vehicle even if the vehicle is slightly outside the intended parking position is parked, or serves to connect different types of vehicles with the charging station, which therefore provide the trained for receiving the charging cable connector 26 coupling piece at different locations.

In addition to the first coupling unit 6 with the plug element 11 and the second coupling unit 7 with the mating plug element 12, the safety coupling 5 also provides the connection module 8 before. The connecting module 8 provides for mechanical connection of the coupling units 6, 7 one of the first coupling unit 6 associated permanent magnet 9 and a magnetic counter-body 10 before, which is associated with the second coupling unit 7. The coupling units 6, 7 are so far positively connected to each other.

The safety clutch 5 serves to mechanically and electrically connect the first charging cable segment 3 to the second charging cable segment 4. As in the Fig. 4 and 5 shown, the permanent magnet 9 of the connecting module 8 is attached to the magnetic counter-body 10 and the first coupling unit 6 mechanically fixedly connected to the second coupling unit 7 for this purpose. In addition, the mating plug element 12 of the second coupling unit 7 engages in the plug-in element 11 provided on the first coupling unit 6 for the electrically conductive connection of the charging cable segments 3, 4. For the second charging cable segment 4, a strain relief 13 is realized on the second coupling unit 7. By the strain relief 13 it is ensured that in an operating arrangement of the safety clutch 5, in which the coupling units 6, 7 are mechanically and electrically connected, no mechanical forces are transmitted via the plug-in element 11 formed in the mating connector 12 connector.

In a safety separation arrangement of the safety coupling 5 according to the Fig. 6 and 7 the first coupling unit 6 of the safety coupling 5 in the region of the connection module 8 is separated from the second coupling unit 7. The permanent magnet 9 of the connection module 8 is not so far on the magnetic counter-body 10, which is associated with the second coupling unit 7. In addition, the mating plug element 12 is removed from the plug-in element 11 of the first coupling unit 6 and connected in addition to the mechanical connection and the electrical connection between the first charging cable segment 3 and the second charging cable segment 4. It is insofar in the safety separation arrangement of the safety charging cable device 2 of Charging cable connector 26, which is provided at a free end of the second charging cable segment 4, no longer connected to the control unit 1 of the charging station.

The overhead mounting of the charging cable device 2 initially uses the suspension device 15 with the traction means 16, which is connected to an opening 25 provided on the first coupling unit 6 of the safety coupling 5. The suspension device 15 is provided on the mounting rail 27 on a support 28 for the canopy 29. For fixing the mounting rail 27 on the formed in the manner of a double-T-profile support 28 via a connecting means 30, which may be formed, for example, as a screw or quick connection means. The provision of the connecting means 30 ensures that the modular charging station can be attached quickly and flexibly to various canopy constructions. It can be used in this respect always the same mounting rail 27 and an adaptation of the installation to the structural conditions on site can be realized only by a corresponding configuration of the connecting means 30.

The mounting rail 27 is formed in the manner of a square tube profile. It has a longitudinal slot 31. In the region of the longitudinal slot 31, the suspension device 15 engages with rollers 32 provided thereon in the mounting rail 27. It is insofar easily possible to move the suspension device 15 along the mounting rail 27 and to position according to the structural conditions at the intended location. In particular, it may be provided that the suspension device 15 is displaced during the installation of the modular charging station in the mounting rail 27 and then carried out a determination of the suspension device 15 on the mounting rail 27. A longitudinal displacement of the suspension device 15 on the mounting rail 27 is therefore not provided during the intended use of the charging station.

About the traction means 16 of the suspension 15, the safety clutch 5 of the safety charging cable device 2 is held vertically adjustable. The traction means 16, which is connected via the eyelet 25 with the first coupling unit 6 of the safety coupling 5, in this case stored on a drum 17 of the suspension device 15, cf. Fig. 9 , A height adjustment between a basic position Fig. 9 , in any case, the safety coupling 5 with the charging cable connector 26th adjacent to the canopy 29 is arranged so high that the vehicle does not touch these functional components of the charging station when parking with the structure, and a deployment position in which the charging cable 26 can be removed by a user from the receptacle 33 and connected to the vehicle , effectively prevents damage to the functional components. The provisioning position is provided below the basic position.

To bring the safety charging cable device 2 in the ready position, a textile actuating element 14 is provided on the second coupling unit 7 of the safety charging cable device 2, which is formed loop-shaped. A length of the actuating element 14 is determined so that the actuating element 14 can be gripped even when the safety charging cable device 2 is provided in the basic position. By pulling the actuator 14, the safety charging cable device 2 can then be moved to the ready position.

In the home position, the safety charging cable device 2 is positioned against a first stop. The basic position is insofar the uppermost position in which the safety clutch 5 or the safety charging cable device 2 can be spent. It is designed in particular as a preferred position by the traction means 16 of the suspension device 15 is acted upon by a restoring force in the direction of the drum 17. The provisioning position is presently designed as a detent position. When the security charging cable device 2 is moved to the provisioning position, it is first moved downwards beyond the provisioning position and then withdrawn into the ready position. The withdrawal takes place without any action by the force applied to the traction means 16 restoring force. To bring the safety charging cable device 2 from the ready position to the home position is first impressed against the restoring force on the traction means 16 downward movement to release the latch, and then enters the safety charging cable device 2 due to the impressed restoring force automatically in the basic position.

The realization of the locking function is in the 10 to 15 shown. It is this purpose in a housing of the suspension device 15 on the traction means 16 is a spherical Catch body 19 is provided. If the safety charging cable device 2 is moved from the basic position to the ready position, the locking body 19 first enters the area of action of a first control edge 23 of the control link 18 and then counteracts set a first block 21. The first block 21 forms a second stop and defines the lowermost position of the safety loading cable device 2 as it is moved from the home position to the ready position. Now, if the train is released or reduces the tensile force, the locking body 19 passes into the formed on the control link 18 sink 20, which serves as a further stop for the locking body 19, and the safety charging cable device 2 is in the ready position. To bring the safety charging cable device 2 from the ready position back to the basic position, a tensile force is first impressed again on the safety charging cable device 2 and the detent body 19 is positioned against a second block 22. If the latching body 19 is provided in the second block 22, the safety charging cable device 2 is at a reversal point. Now, if the tensile force is reduced, the safety charging cable device 2 is returned to the basic position due to the force acting on the traction means 16 restoring force. The locking body 19 is guided along a second control edge 24 of the control link 18. It is thus the case that the provision position of the safety charging cable device 2, in which the detent body 19 is guided in the depression 20 of the control link 18, does not define the lowest or lowest position of the safety charging cable device 2. Both when bringing the safety charging cable device 2 into the ready position and when the safety charging cable device 2 is moved from the ready position to the basic position, the safety charging cable device 2 is briefly moved below the ready position for latching or releasing the latching of the safety charging cable device 2.

A first alternative embodiment of the suspension device 15 is in the Fig. 16 to 22nd shown. It is here as previously provided in the housing of the suspension device 15 on the traction means 16 of the spherical detent body 19. The locking body 19 cooperates in the known manner with the control link 18. In particular, the latching body 19 fixed to the traction means 16 is moved in the manner described above when the charging cable plug 26 is moved from the basic position into the Provided position and back to the control link 18 and positioned against the serving as a second stop first block 21, which serves as a further stop sink 20 and the second block 22. According to the first alternative embodiment of the suspension device 15, however, the drum 17 for storing the traction means 16 is dispensed with. Instead, the traction means 16 is guided via a deflection roller 37, which is supported against a gas pressure spring 38.

Will to spend the charging cable connector 26 from the home position Fig. 16 in the ready position Fig. 20 The traction roller 37 is displaced against the gas pressure spring 38 in the direction of the control link 18 due to the shortening of the traction means 16 in the suspension device 15. The gas pressure spring 38 thus impresses on the traction means 16, the restoring force counteracting the adjustment.

In order to spend the charging cable connector 26 from the ready position to the basic position at a later time, the detent of the detent body 19 is released in a known manner by first applying a tensile force to the traction means 16 and the detent body 19 is positioned against the second block 22. After relaxing, the gas spring 38 then presses the deflection roller 37 away from the control link 18, with the result that the charging cable plug 26 is returned to the basic position.

Fig. 23 shows a second alternative embodiment of the suspension device 15 according to the invention. Here, it is so that is dispensed to the control link 18 and cooperating with the control link 18 detent body 19. Instead, the locking function of the suspension device 15 is integrated into the gas spring 38.

To lock the charging cable plug 26 in the ready position, it is first moved downward beyond the provisioning position. During the subsequent unloading, a plunger 40 held longitudinally displaceably in a cylindrical housing 39 of the gas pressure spring 38 locks with the result that the charging cable plug 26 is provided in the ready position.

The lock is released by lowering the charging cable connector 26 from the ready position. After releasing the locking relaxed the gas spring 38 and the charging cable connector 26 returns to the basic position.

The modular charging station according to the invention can be advantageously used to electrically charge electrically operated commercial vehicles, for example transporters or other distribution vehicles used in local traffic, during the loading of goods. The overhead mounting of the safety charging cable device 2 makes it possible, on the one hand, to load the goods in the vehicle substantially without any damage from the side or from behind. The suspended safety charging cable device 2 does not interfere with the loading process. On the other hand, the overhead mounting of the safety charging cable device 2 provides maximum maneuvering space when parking the vehicle. Even with a large construction height, the basic position of the safety charging cable device 2 can be regularly selected so that the vehicle can be parked without damage and without mechanical contact of the safety charging cable device 2, the charging cable connector 26 and the safety clutch 5 and parked. Should it nevertheless nevertheless come in a particular case to a mechanical contact, by providing the safety coupling 5 damage to the charging station or a risk to life and limb of the persons involved prevented by exceeding a structurally predetermined separation force of the connection module 8, first the mechanical connection between the first coupling unit 6 and the second coupling unit 7 is released and then the plug-in element 11 is separated from the mating plug element 12 further. It is insofar a mechanical damage, in particular the suspension device 15, the first charging cable segment 3 and the control unit 1 prevented. In addition, after the separation, the electrical and mechanical connection can be restored and the charging station according to the invention can be put into operation again within a very short time.

In addition, the installation of the modular charging station according to the invention is particularly simple. In particular, it is possible to prefabricate the control unit 1, the suspension device 15, the safety coupling 5 and the second charging cable segment 4 with the receptacle 33, the charging cable plug 26 and the spiral cable section 35 at the factory. At a site assembly will be insofar as the control unit 1, the mounting rail 27 and then the suspension device 15 is mounted. If the safety charging cable device 2 is subsequently mounted, the first charging cable segment 3 can be cut to a specific length on site according to the structural conditions and connected to the control device 1 on the one hand and the plug-in element 11 of the first coupling unit 6 on the other hand. The electrically contacted safety clutch 5 can then be connected to the traction means 16, wherein depending on the structural conditions and height of the basic position, the traction means 16 is shortened on site. Thus, it is thus the case that an individual adaptation to the structural conditions has to take place solely for the first charging cable segment 3 and the traction means 16 of the suspension device 15. All other components can be prefabricated in the factory. As required, suitable connecting means 30 for fastening the mounting rail 27 to the canopy 29 can be provided and kept ready for use.

Claims (15)

Charging station for providing electrical energy for an electrically operable vehicle comprising a charging cable device (2) with a charging cable plug (26) for connection to the vehicle, wherein the charging cable plug (26) is suspended in height adjustable by means of a suspension device (15), which via a traction means (16 ) has for at least indirectly holding the charging cable plug (26), wherein the charging cable plug (26) is positioned in a basic position against a first stop and can be moved from the home position to a staging position in which the charging cable plug (26) is provided below the home position, wherein for the purpose of bringing the charging cable plug (26) from the basic position into the ready position, a slidably constructed and / or pivotally mounted actuating element (14) is provided, which is in any case indirectly connected to the charging cable plug (26). Charging station according to claim 1, characterized in that the basic position of the charging cable plug (26) is formed as a preferred position by the traction means (16) of the suspension device (15) is acted upon by a restoring force. Loading station according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the provisioning position is formed as a detent position such that the charging cable plug (26) for moving it is moved to the ready position initially beyond the ready position and then retracted to the ready position and / or that the charging cable connector (26) for moving it from the ready position to the home position is first moved against the restoring force of the traction means (16) and then retracted to the home position. Loading station according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the traction means (16) is acted upon by a spring force and / or weight for impressing the restoring force and / or that the spring force is provided by a gas spring. Charging station according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that an adjustment path for the charging cable plug (26) is limited by a second stop. Loading station according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that a vertical distance between the home position and the deployment position is smaller than the adjustment path for the charging cable plug (26) and / or that a ratio between the vertically determined distance between the home position and the ready position on the one hand and the adjustment on the other hand at least 0.9 and preferably at least 0.95. Charging station according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the actuating element (14) is designed as a textile actuating element and / or as a grip loop. Loading station according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the traction means (16) is elastic and / or limp formed and / or that the traction means (16) in the basic position and / or the provision position in any case in sections on a drum of the suspension ( 15) is stored. Loading station according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that for realizing the detent position on the traction means (16) a detent body (19) is fixed and / or that the detent body is positioned in the ready position against the second and / or another stop , Loading station according to claim 9, characterized in that the latching body during the removal of the charging cable plug (26) from the basic position in the ready position and / or back along a control link (18) is guided. Loading station according to claim 9 or 10, characterized in that the first stop and / or the second stop and / or the further stop are formed by blocks (21, 22) formed on the control link (18), against which the detent body (19) is positioned, and / or that the latching body (19) is held in the provision position in a recess (20) of the control link (18). Loading station according to one of claims 9 to 11, characterized in that the latching body (19) when moving the charging cable plug (26) from the basic position to the provision position along a first control edge (23) of the control link (18) is guided and / or that of Locking body (19) when moving the charging cable plug (26) from the provision position to the home position along a second control edge (24) of the control link (18) is guided. Charging station according to one of claims 3 to 12, characterized in that for realizing the locking position of the charging cable plug (26) in the ready position, a locking element is spatially integrated into the gas pressure spring (38), by means of which the force is applied to the traction means (16). Charging station according to one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that the charging cable arrangement (2) a first charging cable segment (3) which is connected via an electrical switching module to a supply network, a second charging cable segment (4), at the end of the charging cable connector (26 ) for connection to the vehicle, and an adapter module (5) for electrically and mechanically connecting the charging cable segments (3, 4), wherein the traction means (16) on the first charging cable segment (3) and / or on the adapter module (5 ). Charging station according to one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that the charging cable device is designed as a safety charging cable device (2) with a first charging cable segment (3), which is connected via an electrical switching module to a supply network, with a second charging cable segment (4), at the end a charging cable connector (26) is set for connection of the charging station to the vehicle, and with a multi-part safety coupling (5) for electrical and mechanical Connecting the first charging cable segment (3) to the second charging cable segment (4), wherein the safety coupling (5) has a first coupling unit (6), a second coupling unit (7) and a detachable, mechanical connection of the first coupling unit (6) to the second Coupling unit (7) formed connecting module (8), wherein the first coupling unit (6) comprises an electrically conductive with the first charging cable segment (3) connected to plug element (11) and wherein the second coupling unit (7) has an electrically conductive to the plug element (11 ) of the first coupling unit (6) attachable mating plug element (12) provides for forming a plug connection, which is electrically conductively connected to the second charging cable segment (4), and / or that the adapter module (5) is designed as a safety coupling.

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